KL Rahul’s place in the India Cricket Team might be secured. And the credit for this goes to Rishabh Pant. With the latter being injured and questions raised on his availability, KL Rahul just might have got a lifeline. But even then, it won’t be easy on Rahul who will now face stiff competition from Dhruv Jurel.
As things stand, with Shubman Gill making his return after missing the opening Test with a stiff neck, it is impossible to drop Sarfaraz Khan. The young batter redeemed himself for his first innings duck with a magnificent 150-run knock against the Kiwis. In comparison, KL Rahul failed to bite his mark in the game with the bat.
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KL Rahul vs Dhruv Jurel
Shubman Gill back in the side means he will slot in at the number 3 spot while KL Rahul will have to pave the way for Sarfaraz Khan at number 5. But things can take a sharp turn if Rishabh Pant is unable to play the next match. In his case, it will be a direct fight between Dhruv Jurel and KL Rahul.
In the previous game, Rishabh Pant was hit on his right knee and could keep wickets for India in the latter part of the game. In his place, on came Dhruv Jurel and slotted himself behind the stumps.
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Will KL Rahul play in Pune Test?
As things stand, it is highly likely Jurel will get the nod ahead of KL Rahul. Meanwhile, for Rishabh Pant, the selectors won’t take a call. In fact, the selectors have left it to the team management to decide what would be best for them.
Should the team decide to go for experience over youth, then KL Rahul will be the obvious pick. Furthermore, KL Rahul is an able keeper and his safe pair of hands makes him a vital asset for any fielding side.
KL Rahul has proved time and again why he is a vital asset for the India team in red ball cricket. But now with a strong bench strength, KL’s place in the team is not guaranteed. So now the star player has to perform in whatever chances he will get. And the biggest chance he can get is in the next match if Rishabh Pant is injured.
It is now or never for the star batter who needs to zone into his inner beat mode to bring out the best he can offer in Test cricket.
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